Legislature Votes to Allow Golf Carts on Local Roads in Beach Communities

The state House and Senate have voted to allow towns to permit the use of golf carts on local roads, as proposed in January by state Rep. Marilyn Giuliano, R-23, Lyme, Old Lyme, Old Saybrook, Westbrook.

The golf cart issue was included in a major bill, SB 1081, updating numerous state motor vehicle laws. It now awaits signature by the governor.

Rep. Giuliano said, “This language permitting golf cart use in beach communities was drafted in collaboration with the state Department of Motor Vehicles, the state Department of Transportation and the State Traffic Commission. I thank them and legislative colleagues for support on this issue of importance to many beach residents.”

The new law clears up confusion about the use of golf carts, particularly by elderly residents in beach communities along the Connecticut shoreline. At one time, towns allowed such use, but the state Department of Motor Vehicles in October 2007 found there was no basis in state law that authorized such use.

Rep. Giuliano met with representatives of Old Saybrook beach associations including more than 40 golf cart users to learn the legislative process and to develop testimony. The Transportation committee heard from several of these residents at a public hearing and received written testimony from dozens of local residents.

Specifically the legislation authorizes any local traffic authority (such as the police commission) to permit the operation of golf carts, during daylight hours, on any road under its jurisdiction. A golf cart must be equipped with an operable horn meeting the requirements of state law and a flag positioned to assist other drivers to see the golf cart.

The traffic authority must limit their operation to roads with a posted speed limit of 25 miles per hour or less. The operator of such a golf cart must carry a valid Connecticut driver's license when operating the cart. The bill authorizes the DMV commissioner to establish insurance requirements for golf carts by regulation.

Violations of these requirements are designated as infractions. The legislation will be effective immediately after it is signed into law by the governor.

Rep. Giuliano serves the 23rd assembly district of Lyme, Old Lyme, Old Saybrook and coastal Westbrook.